THEY may look like grizzlies, but really, they’re teddy bears at heart.

On Saturday, the Red Knights will embark on the 21st Annual Keith Hamilton Toy Run, bearing gifts for children and teenagers in need, and donating them to the Salvation Army and St Vincent De Paul Society.

The troupe has planned a slighter longer route this year, departing from Sale clocktower at 9.30am, riding to Longford, then onto Rosedale, Heyfield, Newry, Valencia Creek, Briagolong, and arriving at Maffra Gippsland Vehicle Collection about 11.30am.

Riders from across the region are encouraged to join the Knights for their final leg from Maffra to Sale, via Back Maffra and Cemetery Rd, down Reeve St then Raymond St, where they will hand over the toys to the Salvos and St Vinnies at Sale Clocktower at midday.

If the weather is poor, the handover will happen at the Salvation Army store in Cunninghame St.

This is the second year the fire fighting and motorcycle club has organised the event, taking over from the late Ian Kennedy who was heavily involved in the event through Maffra Sale Motorcycle Club.

Each year, the riders’ generosity ensures families struggling to make ends meet can enjoy Christmas with gifts for their children.